Freiburg come into this one with the look of a side that knows exactly who they are. The Black Forest club have built their reputation on being the Bundesliga's great overachievers — a tight, disciplined unit that punches above its weight year after year. Recent results may not be plastered across the headlines, but the underlying picture is clear: this is a team that grinds out results, especially at home. The Europa Conference League qualifiers against Motherwell showed their squad depth and their ability to rotate without losing their shape. That European run has given them rhythm, competitive sharpness, and a belief that they can control games against mid-table opposition.

Werder Bremen, meanwhile, are still finding their feet under their new manager. The pre-season buzz around Thioune's tactical ideas is real, but the transition takes time. New signings Wojcik and Hein are already sidelined with muscular problems — that's a blow to their integration and to Bremen's attacking options. The loan arrival of Eren Dinkçi from Freiburg adds an interesting subplot, but it also means Bremen are relying on a player who knows the opposition's defensive structure inside out — and who may not be fully match-sharp yet. Bremen's recent form has been patchy, and their away record against organised sides like Freiburg has been a recurring problem. They'll be competitive, but they lack the momentum and the settled XI that Freiburg can boast.